Russian Helicopters Plans Indian Assembly Complex

By Staff Writer | January 4, 2013

Utility

UIC Oboronprom subsidiary Russian Helicopters has agreed to establish an assembly plant in New Delhi with Elcom Systems Private Ltd., which is part of India’s SUN Group. The facility will produce Kamov Ka- and Mil Mi- series variants, starting with the Ka-226T. The agreement, which was announced during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India in late December, includes a framework to research advanced concepts, according to Russian Helicopters CEO Dmitry Petrov. It also includes a provision develop a joint Helicopter Academy for technical and flight training with Elcom Systems.

Russian Helicopters has secured a separate contract for additional Mi-17V-5 helicopters from the Indian Ministry of Defence. The agreement is an expansion of a 2008 deal with Rosoboronexport, with delivery expected in 2015. The Mi-17V-5s are intended for the Indian Air Force.

Indian Mi-17B-5.Photo courtesy of Russian Helicopters

The manufacturer also recently handed over a consignment of Mi-17B-5s as part of a contract that runs until 2013. Kazan Helicopter Plant built the Mi-7Bs.Related:Airframe News